Hail to the (chief's) wheels

President Barack Obama's new limo is nicknamed "The Beast" It is considered the most secure ever, virtually impervious to chemical and biological attacks and rocket-propelled grenades.

President Barack Obama's new limo is nicknamed "The Beast" It is considered the most secure ever, virtually impervious to chemical and biological attacks and rocket-propelled grenades. (Charles Dharapak/Associated Press)

Larry PrintzMcClatchy-Tribune News

NORFOLK, Va. — After Barack Obama took the oath of office Tuesday, he rode to the White House in a new custom-built Cadillac limousine that, other than larger windows, isn't dramatically different than the one built for President George W. Bush in 2005.

"Making comparisons to any other car falls apart because there is no comparable car," said Cadillac spokesman David Caldwell.

Specifications and construction of presidential cars are overseen by a small government group; GM is mum on the specifics. And Caddy isn't alone. A look back:

Though Dwight Eisenhower had a plastic bubbletop fitted to the limo in case of rain, he also went top down in a 1953 Cadillac Eldorado.

The 1961 Lincoln Continental built for John F. Kennedy was modified by the Ohio-based coach builder Hess and Eisenhardt. It was the car Kennedy was riding in when he was assassinated in Dallas in 1963.

Lyndon Johnson also used the car after it was again modified for security purposes.